The Delphi Murders: First Person: Updates and Conclusions: Part Two

In the second installment of their in-depth series on the Delphi Murders, hosts Áine Cain and Kevin Greenlee of The Murder Sheet delve deeper into their investigative journey, reflecting on their experiences, challenges, and the multifaceted nature of the case. Released on February 24, 2025, this episode offers listeners a comprehensive overview of the progress and setbacks encountered during their coverage of one of true crime's most harrowing cases.

Reflections on the "First Person" Series

The episode begins with Áine Cain expressing gratitude and awe for the opportunity to engage directly with individuals connected to the Delphi case. She describes the experience as "surreal" and an honor, highlighting the trust placed in them by their interviewees. Cain emphasizes their journalistic approach, aiming to let guests share their experiences without imposing their own narratives.

Áine Cain [04:35]: "It was really surreal. It was an honor... I was just happy that a lot of people trusted us to have those conversations."

Kevin Greenlee echoes this sentiment, noting the meaningful connections formed through the series and the mutual respect developed with those involved.

Evaluating Coverage: Strengths and Mistakes

As the hosts assess their reporting journey, Cain candidly acknowledges areas where The Murder Sheet could have improved. She reflects on their initial neutrality and the challenges of maintaining it amidst evolving case dynamics.

Áine Cain [08:06]: "I can see mistakes we made covering the case. I can see where I feel like we've improved with some of our critical reasoning on the case."

Greenlee concurs, pointing out moments where the defense's arguments became "anti-factual," compelling them to address inconsistencies without overtly stating their stance on Richard Allen's guilt or innocence.

Kevin Greenlee [09:13]: "Another thing that was odd... the defense made the decision to, I'll say it, to lie about us in court."

Cain further explores the complexities of reporting on high-profile cases, emphasizing the importance of humility and the recognition that "things are always so much more complicated than you will ever know."

Challenges Within the Investigation

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the investigative hurdles faced during the Delphi case. The hosts dissect the infamous "misfiled tip," attributing it to "too many people involved early on" which led to the critical tip getting lost amidst the chaos.

Áine Cain [22:01]: "But I also want to say that I don't believe that the too many cooks in the kitchen... it's a systemic issue. It's not like anyone was lazy or bad here. It's just a mistake."

Greenlee reinforces this point, summarizing it as "too many cooks in the kitchen," highlighting organizational inefficiencies that hampered the investigation's progress.

Kevin Greenlee [24:12]: "I think one of too many cooks in the kitchen that you just so cleverly articulated."

Online Harassment and Media Misrepresentation

The hosts address the troubling trend of online harassment directed at law enforcement and defense attorneys involved in the case. They express frustration over individuals who see themselves as "real investigators" without any relevant expertise, engaging in baseless accusations and conspiracy theories.

Áine Cain [25:34]: "I think cases like Delphi take over and it's like everyone's like, well, this stuff is so crazy and all this stuff's happening here."

Greenlee suggests a constructive alternative for those genuinely concerned about the criminal justice system:

Kevin Greenlee [26:32]: "Instead of harassing people you don't know in other states, look to cases maybe in your own area that are not getting a lot of attention and try to do some honest boots on the ground reporting."

Critique of the Defense Team: Ricky Davis and Kagan Klein

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to scrutinizing the defense team's competence. The hosts discuss Ricky Davis and Kagan Klein, expressing disappointment in their performance and decision-making throughout the trial. They lament missed opportunities for meaningful dialogue, particularly highlighting Davis's unfulfilled offer to discuss the case's intricacies on the podcast.

Kevin Greenlee [31:30]: "Andy Baldwin told me more than once that he was very interested... but for whatever reason, he chose not to follow through on that."

Cain reflects on their initial high regard for the defense attorneys, which diminished as the trial progressed and their tactics became increasingly questionable.

Áine Cain [33:23]: "I regret those episodes. It was done with good intentions... It just didn't work out."

The hosts criticize the defense's reliance on "nonsensical conspiracy theories" and extravagant courtroom arguments that failed to resonate with the broader audience, ultimately weakening their case.

Honoring the Victims: Abigail and Liberty

Towards the end of the episode, Cain shifts focus to honor the victims, Abigail and Liberty. She underscores their bravery and the significant role they played in aiding the investigation, despite their tragic demise.

Áine Cain [48:34]: "They were able to take video of him and in Abigail's case, conceal the device... they were able to show the world what Richard Allen is and what he really is."

Cain poignantly reflects on the girls' potential and the immense loss their families and communities have suffered.

Áine Cain [48:34]: "They deserve to be remembered as heroes. They wouldn't get to have families of their own... but they were able to help solve this crime."

Greenlee reinforces this tribute, emphasizing the lasting impact Abigail and Liberty had on the case and the community.

Closing Thoughts and Lessons Learned

In concluding the episode, Cain and Greenlee share valuable lessons gleaned from their coverage of the Delphi Murders. They stress the importance of thorough, unbiased reporting and the need to recognize the human element behind every case. The hosts advocate for respectful discourse and the avoidance of sensationalism, aiming to honor the victims and support the true heroes behind the investigation.

Áine Cain [45:51]: "We have a bias toward wanting everyone to be competent professionals... that’s our bias."

Their reflections serve as a testament to the complexities of true crime journalism and the ethical responsibilities it entails.

Conclusion

"The Delphi Murders: First Person: Updates and Conclusions: Part Two" offers a deep dive into the intricacies of covering a high-profile case. Áine Cain and Kevin Greenlee provide listeners with an honest assessment of their journalistic endeavors, the challenges inherent in such intense investigations, and the profound respect they hold for the victims and those who tirelessly worked to bring justice. This episode stands as a compelling narrative on the pursuit of truth amidst adversity, emphasizing the importance of integrity and empathy in true crime reporting.